Waiter inspired by Dwight Howard

KISSIMMEE, FL – Wes Green has always considered himself a huge Dwight Howard fan every since the center was drafted out of high school by his favorite team, the Orlando Magic. He never thought his admiration for the 22-year-old star could grow, until this year’s slam dunk contest.

“I saw Dwight out there giving it all, and it almost brought me to tears,” Green explained. “These days so few guys put that level of passion into what many consider a meaningless event. But not Dwight.”

Green said he’s used the example set by Howard to give it all at his job as a waiter at a local Olive Garden. He said that before the slam dunk contest he was just working for the weekend, but since he has become much more dedicated.

The change has not been lost on Olive Garden manager Corey Kemp, who spoke to SSNN over a sinfully delightful diner at the restaurant.

“I think everyone here’s noticed a big difference in Wes’ attitude,” Kemp said. “He’s really, really into his job now. Sure, we’ve had complaints about his ‘Slam Dunk Special,’ but in the end that’s a small price to pay for a waiter with a positive disposition.”

Indeed, the ‘Slam Dunk Special’ has been a controversial addition to the Garden. According to co-workers, Green will mimic one of Howard’s dunks – often, but by no means exclusively, the Superman dunk - when serving patrons.

Green is quick to point out that while he offers the special to every one of his customers, he’s not overly pushy about it. He also mentioned that it is free of charge.

“We saw our waiter from across the restaurant changing into a Superman costume,” said Olive Garden customer Steph Normandy. “I was immediately excited, a big part of my decision on how much to tip is based on presentation. Of course, I wasn’t all that thrilled when he slammed my plate of eggplant parmesan onto the table, flinging the side of spaghetti onto my husband Bob.”

Kemp said he has spoken to Green about the slamming of food onto tables, but that he’s reluctant to set too many rules for his staff.

“I like to keep a loose work atmosphere,” he said. “Besides, I told Wes every time I had to deal with a customer complaint about one of his slams, I’d remind him that Gerald Green’s blowing out the candle dunk was better. I’d like to see him work that into his routine.”

It’s going to be tough for this sport to sweep any nations, but it’s still pretty frickin’ cool!